It has been fourteen years since the discovery of the Emerald Ash Borer in the U.S. To date, it has killed over twenty-five million ash trees in twenty-one states and caused millions of dollars in tree loss. Known for its iridescent green body, the Emerald Ash Borer only preys on ash trees.

How do I tell if my Ash Tree is Infected?

The signs of an Emerald Ash Borer infestation are fairly easy to recognize. The distinct signs of an infected tree are:

“D” shaped exit holes

Canopy die-back

Volunteer growth at the base of the infected ash tree

“S” trails left by the Emerald Ash Borer located underneath the bark

Unfortunately by the time these signs are noticed, the Emerald Ash Borer has already caused extensive damage and the health of the tree has been compromised.

How do I Protect my Ash Trees?

There is no product or natural enemy that will eliminate the Emerald Ash Borer. The best defense against this menace is a preventative insecticide treatment that is applied either by a systemic bark spray or direct trunk injection. The type of treatment and frequency to be administered will depend on the size and diameter of ash tree.

We highly recommend that any ash tree should be fully evaluated by a Certified Arborist who is trained in the detection and forms of treatment and can tell you which method is best for your tree. Sadly, it is not a matter of if an untreated ash tree will become infected but when.